Gratitude and Humility

“Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Mathew 5: 3.)

INSPIRED THOUGHTS:

In this scripture, the phrase “poor in spirit” refers to the attribute of humility (a precious treasure that creates joy in the hearts of all those who possess it.) Practicing humility means acknowledging that God is the giver of all good things. The Lord provides us with our food, shelter, clothing, careers, relationships, and all of the other necessities of daily living. He has complete power over all of creation; the very air we breathe is a gift from Him. Although the humble offer God many praises, the prideful acknowledge only themselves; they mistakenly believe that everything they possess is the product of their own intelligence and hard work.

Nebuchadnezzar was one of the mightiest kings who has ever lived. He became ruler of the Babylonian empire in 605 B.C. Like most powerful men, humility was not one of his greatest attributes; he demanded that his subjects worship him in the manner of a God. One day as he strolled leisurely through his palace, he spoke, saying, “Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?” Before he was finished speaking, a voice came from heaven saying, “The kingdom has departed from you […] your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. They shall make you eat grass like oxen; and seven years shall pass over you, until you know that the most high rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses” (Daniel 4: 30 – 32.) Indeed, because the Babylonian King had failed to give God the credit for his possessions, he slipped in to madness and began acting like an ox for seven years.

As believers we must not make the same mistake as Nebuchadnezzar. Instead, we must acknowledge that all good things come from God; that every possession is a blessing and a gift. Those who desire to enter God’s kingdom would do well to continually honor Him. Practically, Christian humility can be expressed through prayers of gratitude offered to God daily; we can also say grace before meals and praise the Lord in our private time and during worship services. Tithing is another acknowledgement of God’s goodness. Ultimately whatever form of thankfulness we choose to offer, it should come from the heart; and from a deep appreciation for everything that God has so graciously given us.

“Lord Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your many gifts and provisions; for our food, our clothes, and our homes (to name a few.) We recognize that all good things come from You. Help us to maintain a spirit of gratitude and humility. Cleanse our hearts of pride, that in lowliness we might better serve You and our fellows. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you.